I read a book that recommended using three deep bodies. Most everything else I've read only mentions using two. I can see where three would give the bees a lot more room to grow and probably prevent swarming. On the downside, I would think that three would be a disadvantage for overwintering(I live in NE Ohio). What are your opinions on the number of hive bodies to use?
I have tried both 2 and 3. I've found that the bee's rarely enter the top (third) body in the winter. I am back to 2 hive bodies for the winter. Of course if your using mediums you should go with 3.
Quote from: gardeningfireman on July 22, 2009, 10:24:38 AM
I read a book that recommended using three deep bodies. Most everything else I've read only mentions using two. I can see where three would give the bees a lot more room to grow and probably prevent swarming. On the downside, I would think that three would be a disadvantage for overwintering(I live in NE Ohio). What are your opinions on the number of hive bodies to use?
The bees will cluster in the top brood chamber box. If you have 3 deeps for a brood chamber then they will cluster in it, if not it they will cluster below it. The equivalant of 2 deep 10 frames is the standard for overwintering in most of the colder climates, including Alaska and Finland where 3-5 months of sub 30 degree weather is common. Warmer climes need less stores as they have a longer foraging period. Tropical areas have no overwintering issues at all.
I firmly believe in no deeps...
I run between three and five eight frame mediums depending on the cluster and what it takes to get them up to weight. In other words, if the hive is light I might add a box of honey on top regardless of how many boxes that makes. A hive that is light in the spring will hesitate to build up. One that is heavy with stores will build up faster than one that is cutting it close. Usually they don't need more than the equivalent of two deeps to do that.
Quote from: gardeningfireman on July 22, 2009, 10:24:38 AM
I read a book that recommended using three deep bodies. Most everything else I've read only mentions using two. I can see where three would give the bees a lot more room to grow and probably prevent swarming. On the downside, I would think that three would be a disadvantage for overwintering(I live in NE Ohio). What are your opinions on the number of hive bodies to use?
Two deep.If you use excludes you may need to add one in the summer to help the hive to grow if you have a good laying queen. If they don't have room to lay,they will swarm.